latent transforming growth factor beta binding protein 4

The protein encoded by this gene binds transforming growth factor beta (TGFB) as it is secreted and targeted to the extracellular matrix. TGFB is biologically latent after secretion and insertion into the extracellular matrix, and sheds TGFB and other proteins upon activation. Defects in this gene may be a cause of cutis laxa and severe pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and urinary abnormalities. Three transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene.[provided by RefSeq, May 2010]

Key regulator of transforming growth factor beta (TGFB1, TGFB2 and TGFB3) that controls TGF-beta activation by maintaining it in a latent state during storage in extracellular space. Associates specifically via disulfide bonds with the Latency-associated peptide (LAP), which is the regulatory chain of TGF-beta, and regulates integrin-dependent activation of TGF-beta.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD): Most common form of muscular dystrophy; a sex-linked recessive disorder. It typically presents in boys aged 3 to 7 year as proximal muscle weakness causing waddling gait, toe-walking, lordosis, frequent falls, and difficulty in standing up and climbing up stairs. The pelvic girdle is affected first, then the shoulder girdle. Progression is steady and most patients are confined to a wheelchair by age of 10 or 12. Flexion contractures and scoliosis ultimately occur. About 50% of patients have a lower IQ than their genetic expectations would suggest. There is no treatment. [MIM:310200]

Urban-Rifkin-Davis syndrome (URDS): A syndrome characterized by disrupted pulmonary, gastrointestinal, urinary, musculoskeletal, craniofacial and dermal development. Clinical features include cutis laxa, mild cardiovascular lesions, respiratory distress with cystic and atelectatic changes in the lungs, and diverticulosis, tortuosity and stenosis at various levels of the intestinal tract. Craniofacial features include microretrognathia, flat midface, receding forehead and wide fontanelles. [MIM:613177]

You Might Also Like

The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Users with questions about a personal health condition should consult with a qualified healthcare professional.